About Vitamin C
with Bioflavonoids
Vitamin C
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin. It cannot be
produced in the body so a regular dietary intake is necessary. Vitamin C
is known to be involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body.
The vitamin is essential in maintaining healthy skin, hair, teeth, gums,
eyes, bones and ligaments. Its main function is to repair body tissue
and maintain the health of blood vessels and red blood cells. Vitamin C
carries out most of its function through acting as a powerful
antioxidant.
Bioflavonoids
Bioflavonoids and vitamin C naturally occur together in nature.
Bioflavonoids have been shown to enhance the absorption of vitamin C in
the body. They are important for strengthening capillary walls and also
have mild anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine properties.
These tablets have been formulated so that they release their contents
gradually over a period of approximately 8 hours.
Biochemistry / Modes of Action
The Functions Of Vitamin C Are Based Largely On Its Antioxidant
Properties. It is required for :
A) Formation of collagen and other organic constituents of the
intercellular matrix in teeth, bone and capillaries.
B) Functioning of certain enzymes in the body - activation of certain
liver detoxifying enzymes involved in drug metabolism including the
hepatic cytochrome P450 mixed function oxidase system.
C) It also acts as a very potent antioxidant - reacting with free
radicals and is important in the protection of cellular function.
Absorption, Distribution, Elimination And Bioavailability
Vitamin C is absorbed via passive and active transport mechanisms. It is
transported in the free form and is readily taken up by body tissues.
Vitamin C is excreted mainly via the urine. Storage and cooking leads to
loss of vitamin C through oxidation.
Supplemental Uses
Anaemia And Haemorrhagic Disorders - Vitamin C is used in the
treatment of anaemia due to its connection with iron absorption. Vitamin
C and bioflavonoids have been shown to strengthen fragile capillaries
with regards to haemorrhagic disorders.
Allergies - Vitamin C may hep to relieve some allergic symptoms.
Asthma - Asthmatics have lower levels of vitamin C in their blood which
may be linked to increased attacks. Vitamin C supplementation can raise
these levels and make attacks less frequent, especially during exercise.
Hypertension - Vitamin C has shown some positive results in those with
elevated blood pressure.
Iron Deficiency States - Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron in
iron-deficiency states.
Precautions / Adverse Effects
Taking excessive amounts (3 grams and over) in a single dose can
cause diarrhoea and gastrointestinal disturbances.
People with a family history of kidney stones should not exceed 1 gram
daily.
People who suffer from stomach and duodental ulcers should avoid taking
high doses of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). The "buffered" (non-acidic)
form can be used in the healing of ulcers.
Drug Interactions
The effects of tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline,
imipramine) may be reduced by vitamin C.
Cortisones, contraceptive pills and aspirin may interfere with the
absorption of vitamin C.
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